The Habbit Factory
Founded in 2004, The Habbit Factory (THF) is an inclusive arts organisation working with children and young people in the London Borough of Havering. As the only organisation that supports disability arts in the borough and through a targeted network of partners; our work effectively helps people facing higher-than-average levels of exclusion and deprivation.
Our approach is built on the principles of inclusivity, which welcomes everyone; regardless of background, race and/or disability. In doing so, we welcome some of the most excluded and disadvantaged groups in the UK – children and young people who don’t see themselves as artists and don’t have access to any creative engagement or provision.
We do this because we believe art has the power to effect change. Evidence continues to suggest that the creative arts is one of the most powerful tools to bring people together, breaking down social and cultural barriers, whilst helping the most vulnerable to lead a fulfilling and dignified life.
In 2011, as our work with young people became increasingly recognised and championed, we were approached by several schools to support pupils exhibiting challenging behaviour and struggling to control and regulate their emotions. Our approach was different – a commitment to inclusivity meant bringing everyone together, bridging the divides and challenging stigma to understand and value the person
Through our volunteer programme, supporting 17 adults experiencing exclusion and loneliness, we are further able to provide meaningful connection by giving young people and adults an opportunity to meet others and make new friends. Volunteering at THF not only gives volunteers something to do, but it also gives them a sense purpose and identity.
Who to contact
- Contact Name
- Lee Giles
- Contact Position
- Artistic Director & CEO
- Telephone
- 07985377781
- hello@thehabbitfactory.org
- Website
- Website
- Notes
Members will attend weekly after school termly workshops and classes for 39 weeks of the year, working towards one large-scaled performance made by/with/for Members. Workshops are designed to give Members emotional resilience and our inclusivity methodology places the participant centre - focusing on three development principles: attitude, behaviour, and skill/educational.
Every member with an additional need is supported 1:1 with an adult ‘buddy’. Our artistic team are highly trained and take the time to get to know each individual member’s abilities and confidence levels, support them throughout workshops and rehearsals so they can enjoy the process gain self-confidence and achieve their best.
During the yearend performances, everyone plays a part. All members are involved in the creative process as we co-create the story. During show week, we take a professional approach which encourages members to take their role seriously. The performance itself challenges stigma amongst the audience as well as giving members a sense of empowerment.
Where to go
- Notes
Our workshops are based all over the London Borough of Havering and split into the following age categories:
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Infants - School years (Reception - Year 2)
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Juniors - School years (Year 3 - Year 6)
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Seniors - School Years (Year 7 - Year 13)
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Adults - 18+
Venues + Groups:
Monday
St Albans Church, Elm Park. RM12 5JX
Juniors - 5pm - 6:05pm
Seniors - 6:15pm - 7:20pm
Adults - 8pm - 9:05pm
Tuesday
Abbs Cross Academy, Hornchurch, RM12 4YB
Juniors - 5pm - 6:05pm
Seniors - 6:15pm - 7:20pm
Wednesday
Myplace Centre, Harold Hill, RM3 9EN
Juniors - 5pm - 6:05pm
Seniors - 6:15pm - 7:20pm
Thursday
Rainham Royals Youth Centre, Rainham, RM13 9YG
Juniors - 5pm - 6:05pm
Seniors - 6:15pm - 7:20pm
Friday
Salvation Army, Harold Hill, RM3 9NT
Infants - 4pm - 4:45pm
Juniors - 5pm - 6:05pm
Seniors - 6:15pm - 7:20pm
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Time / Date Details
- When is it on
- Monday to Friday
- Time of day
-
Term Time
Afternoon
Evening
Other Details
Costs
- Table of costs
-
Table of costs Amount Cost Type £15 per month - Details
- Payment is simple, all you do is setup a standing order to our account for the first of every month. The month of August is optional as we do not run workshops at this time.
Availability
- Referral Details
To register an interest in one of our workshops please complete our online form:
Contact Us | The Habbit Factory
Local Offer
- Description
Every member with an additional need is supported 1:1 with an adult ‘buddy’. Our artistic team are highly trained and take the time to get to know each individual member’s abilities and confidence levels, support them throughout workshops and rehearsals so they can enjoy the process gain self-confidence and achieve their best
- Contact Name
- Lee Giles
- Contact Telephone
- 07985377781
- Contact Email
- hello@thehabbitfactory.org
- Links
-
Website
- Local Offer Age Bands
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5-11 years
11-16 years